Lamb Kofte Recipe

If you are craving something bursting with bold flavors, juicy texture, and a touch of exotic spice, this Lamb Kofte Recipe is guaranteed to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. These succulent skewers of seasoned ground lamb capture the heart of Middle Eastern cooking with a fragrant blend of herbs and spices that make every bite unforgettable. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a cozy gathering, lamb kofte offers a wonderful way to enjoy tender meat packed with character, all wrapped up in a simple yet visually appealing form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first secret to nailing this Lamb Kofte Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the rich, ground lamb that forms the base, to fresh herbs and warming spices that elevate every mouthful.

• 1 lb ground lamb: The star of the dish, ground lamb’s rich flavor is perfect for kofte’s juicy profile.
• 1 small onion, finely grated: Adds subtle sweetness and moisture to keep the kofte tender.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a savory punch that complements the earthy lamb.
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the mixture with fresh herbal notes.
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped: Adds a lively, citrusy dimension to balance the spices.
• 1 tsp ground cumin: Introduces warm, nutty undertones essential for Middle Eastern dishes.
• 1 tsp ground coriander: Offers a delicate, lemony aroma that lifts the flavor.
• 1 tsp paprika: Provides mild sweetness and beautiful red color.
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a hint of fragrant warmth without overpowering.
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice: Enhances the exotic spice profile with depth.
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): For those who love a little heat in their kofte.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all the flavors.
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying or grilling): Helps achieve a crispy, golden exterior.
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for serving): Adds a fresh, bright finish that cuts through the richness.
• Fresh parsley or mint (for garnish, optional): Offers a pop of color and refreshing aroma on top.

How to Make Lamb Kofte Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Mixture

Start by placing your ground lamb in a large bowl and add the finely grated onion, minced garlic, and all the chopped fresh herbs. Sprinkle in the cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, allspice, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently using your hands or a spoon, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined without overworking the meat. This careful mixing helps keep the kofte tender and juicy after cooking.

Step 2: Shape Your Kofte

Once your mixture is well blended, divide it into 8 to 10 equal portions. Wet your hands slightly with water to prevent sticking, then shape each portion into a long, oval kobarf or sausage shape around a skewer or simply form small patties. This shape is traditional and makes them easier to cook evenly on the grill or in a pan, while allowing maximum surface area to get a beautiful crust.

Step 3: Cooking on the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high and lightly brush the grates with oil to avoid sticking. Arrange the kofte on the grill and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Turn them occasionally so they brown evenly and cook through. You’re aiming for a gorgeous charred exterior with juicy meat inside, which makes eating these a total delight.

Step 4: Cooking in a Skillet

If you don’t have a grill handy, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place your kofte patties or skewers in the hot pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Pan-frying offers a slightly different texture but is just as delicious and convenient.

How to Serve Lamb Kofte Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate the Lamb Kofte Recipe beautifully. Fresh parsley or mint leaves sprinkle a burst of color and a refreshing aroma right before serving. A light drizzle of lemon juice adds a welcome citrus tang that balances the rich lamb. If you like, a dollop of creamy yogurt or a tahini sauce pairs wonderfully with the spices.

Side Dishes

Because lamb kofte is so flavorful on its own, side dishes should complement rather than compete. Consider serving with warm pita bread or fluffy basmati rice to soak up the juices. Roasted vegetables, such as eggplants, tomatoes, or peppers, bring vibrant colors and additional texture. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemony vinaigrette adds a fresh, crisp contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the lamb kofte in wraps or pita pockets stuffed with fresh veggies and sauces, perfect for casual lunches or parties. You can also serve kofte as part of a mezze platter alongside hummus, olives, and pickles, turning your meal into a delightful shared experience. Skewered kofte make for dramatic presentation too, especially when garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (and that’s always a possibility with such an irresistible Lamb Kofte Recipe), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors intact while preventing the meat from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked kofte patties or skewers by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freezing until firm, and then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking as described.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm leftover cooked kofte in a skillet over low heat to retain moisture or use an oven set at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving when possible to preserve that lovely texture and avoid drying out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use beef instead of lamb in this recipe?

Absolutely! While lamb is traditional and offers a distinctive flavor, ground beef can be a tasty substitute for lamb kofte, providing a milder taste that still works beautifully with the spices.

How do I prevent the kofte from falling apart while cooking?

Make sure not to overwork the meat during mixing, and wetting your hands when shaping helps the mixture hold together. Cooking over medium-high heat creates a crust quickly, sealing the shape.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

Fresh parsley and cilantro add vibrant freshness that dried herbs cannot fully replicate, but if fresh is unavailable, dried can be used in smaller quantities, just reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the mixture.

Can I make these kofte ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the meat mixture in advance and shape the kofte a day ahead, then store them covered in the refrigerator. This makes cooking on the day much faster and stress-free.

What sauces pair well with lamb kofte?

Yogurt-based sauces like tzatziki or garlic yogurt provide a nice cooling contrast, while tahini sauce offers a nutty depth. Even a simple squeeze of lemon juice or a chili sauce can work wonders.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’ve got the full scoop on this irresistibly flavorful Lamb Kofte Recipe, I encourage you to dive right in and bring a taste of Middle Eastern magic to your kitchen. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try these tender, fragrant kofte, I bet they will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes that bring smiles all around the table!

Lamb Kofte Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings 1x

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Description

Lamb Kofte is a flavorful Middle Eastern dish made from ground lamb mixed with aromatic spices and fresh herbs, shaped into patties or logs, and cooked to perfection by grilling or pan-frying. This recipe offers a delicious and versatile way to enjoy tender, spiced lamb with a hint of heat and freshness from parsley, cilantro, and a squeeze of lemon juice.

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Ingredients

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Meat Mixture

• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb
• 1 small onion, finely grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ground allspice
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Cooking & Serving

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying or grilling)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (for serving)
• Fresh parsley or mint, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. This helps achieve a nice sear and grill marks on the kofte.
2. Grill the Kofte: Place the shaped kofte (patties or logs) on the grill. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until they are evenly browned and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach about 160°F for safe consumption.
3. Pan-Fry Alternative: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the kofte and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked inside. This method offers a nice caramelization if grilling is not an option.
4. Serve: Remove the kofte from heat and drizzle with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to add freshness and brightness. Garnish with fresh parsley or mint if desired. Serve hot with your choice of sides or flatbread.

Notes

• You can prepare the kofte mixture ahead of time and refrigerate to allow the flavors to meld before cooking.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper according to your heat preference or omit it entirely for mild kofte.
• The kofte can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes if you prefer a hands-off cooking method.
• Serve with yogurt sauce, tahini, or fresh salad to complement the rich flavors of lamb.
• Ensure the kofte are cooked to a safe internal temperature to avoid undercooked lamb.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Middle Eastern